2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,796 cc, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 214 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | C | 146 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 75.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1190 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
